The Surprising Thing That Could Be Making You Fat

You know the usual suspects that contribute to weight gain--overeating and lack of exercise (duh). But sometimes it's more complicated than that. Pregnancies. Marriages. Divorces. Major life events--good and bad--can contribute to weight gain, too. And, researchers say this surprising, and yet universal, culprit could be making you pack on pounds. Want to take a guess?

Your job! Or, so say researchers at the University of Rochester School of Medicine. In their study, workers who reported higher job stress were fatter than those who had less stressful jobs. It's just one more reminder that your mental health, stress levels, and general happiness contribute to your physical health.

I know, it's not always easy solving job issues. But, if you hate your job, let this motivate you to do what you need to do to make an escape plan: search for new jobs, send your resume out, think about going back to school. Remember, you are in control of your life and future! : )

Have you ever had a horrible job? Did you feel that it contributed to weight gain or other health issues?